1971 MORRIS MINI VAN

KEY FACTS

• A smart example of the classic commercial vehicle, benefitting from an extensive restoration.
• Under the bonnet is the robust 848cc ‘A Series’ four-cylinder engine, which drives the front wheels via a four-speed manual transmission.
• First registered in April 1971, this Mini Van was acquired by its previous owner in August 2014, who meticulously restored it over the course of the next four years. Today, it is offered for sale via the trade.

EQUIPMENT AND FEATURES

• This charming classic is finished in the eye-catching hue of Riviera Blue, with tan leather-trimmed seats and grey carpets.
• It rides on the correct set of 10-inch steel wheels, which are fitted with polished hubcaps and present very well, with some minor marks and blemishes on their surfaces, but no substantial scratches or kerb scuffs.
• Unlike many Mini Vans, this example is fitted with side windows, though these may be a later retrofit.
• The vehicle will be accompanied by various receipts and invoices for replacement parts and restoration.

CONDITION

• No known bodywork damage.
• During this van’s restoration, its front end, doors, sills and floor were replaced, and the rear wheel arches were welded to repair some general corrosion.
• Having been fully resprayed, the period-correct Riviera Blue paintwork is in very good overall condition, with some minor marks and light scratches around the vehicle.
• There are small chips and light surface corrosion on the edges of the wheel arches, and some slight discolouration on the rear driver’s-side ‘barn door’, but overall this Mini Van looks smart.
• Inside, the seats and inner doors have been recovered in fluted tan leather and are in great shape, and new grey carpets have been fitted throughout. Elsewhere, the cabin features its original switches and gauges, which have a pleasing light patina and reflect the vehicle’s history and use.
• There are no known electrical or mechanical faults.
• While it is exempt due to its age, this Mini’s last MOT test was conducted on 7 August 2017 at an indicated 36,503 miles. This resulted in a clean pass after the nearside rear wheel bearing was replaced.

SERVICE HISTORY

• As well as the repairs to its bodywork and the retrimming of its interior, this Mini Van has benefitted from a full mechanical overhaul as part of its restoration.
• Work included replacement of the fuel tank, shock absorbers, clutch, oil pump and steering rack.

SUMMARY

Charming, characterful and eminently practical, this 1971 Morris Mini Van is a well-presented example of the classic commercial vehicle. Restored to a good standard by its previous owner, this van could be pressed into service as a usable delivery vehicle for a local business, or would make a fun addition to an assembly of British classics.

The description of this auction lot is, to the best of the seller's knowledge, accurate and not misleading. Collecting Cars requests a range of detail about the lot from the seller, and performs a level of due diligence. However, bidders must satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description, and conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to a bid. Please see our Terms and Conditions for full details.

All UK-registered cars and motorbikes on Collecting Cars are run through an online HPI check. On the HPI report, this vehicle shows no insurance database markers for damage or theft, and has no finance owing.